Ingredients

1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
ground black pepper
4 bone-in chicken thighs , skin removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 fennel bulb , trimmed and thinly sliced
1 large red onion , thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic , minced , or more to taste
1 can garbanzo beans , drained , divided
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup pitted green olives , divided
3 tablespoons harissa , or to taste
1/2 preserved lemon , thinly sliced , divided
1 teaspoon grated ginger root ( optional )
5 cherry tomatoes , halved , or more to taste
1/4 cup toasted almonds
The Moroccan chicken tagine is a classic North African dish made in a clay or ceramic pot called a tagine. The dish is named after the pot, and the recipe is believed to be over a thousand years old. The tagine's unique shape, with a conical lid that allows steam to circulate, promises a succulent and tender meat dish. This recipe pairs well with couscous or rice. The preserved lemons, fennel, olives, and harissa sauce create a unique blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that's sure to delight your taste buds. The dish is best enjoyed with family and friends, served on the table with fresh herbs and crusty bread.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, mix together paprika, cumin, salt, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper. Rub the chicken with this spice mix.
2.In a wide and deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced fennel, onion, and garlic and sauté them until softened, about 5 minutes. Add half of the garbanzo beans, chicken broth, and half of the olives. Stir to mix.
3.Carefully place the chicken thighs on top of this vegetable mixture. Scatter the preserved lemon slices and the rest of the garbanzo beans over the chicken.
4.Over low heat, cover the skillet and cook the chicken and vegetables for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens. Add in harissa sauce and cherry tomatoes; cook an additional 5-10 minutes.
5.Turn off the heat and sprinkle the toasted almonds and the rest of the olives over the chicken.

PROS

This comforting Moroccan chicken tagine is full of complex flavors, perfect for entertaining and special gatherings.
The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, fennel, lemon, olives, and harissa sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s healthy and filling.

CONS

The olives can be quite salty, so be sure to use a brand that you enjoy to balance the flavors in the dish.
This recipe can be a bit time-consuming to make, but the end result is well worth the effort.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and maintenance. The fennel used in this recipe is high in fiber and contains vitamins C and B6. Preserved lemons are rich in nutrients and antioxidants and can aid in digestion and promote healthy skin. The garbanzo beans provide a source of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein and can help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.

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